The bustling markets and historic sites of Fethiye offer three standout shopping experiences. The practical Jeep Safari combines retail with adventure, taking you through Saklikent Gorge and ancient Tlos before stopping at a local fish farm – perfect for travelers who want variety. I’m especially fond of the Kayakoy Ghost Town tour, where you can shop for authentic crafts while exploring a fascinating abandoned Greek settlement. The Tuesday Fethiye Bazaar tour is my personal favorite, a no-nonsense traditional market experience packed with local textiles, footwear, and aromatic spices at bargain prices. Let’s explore these top shopping tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Fethiye Bazaar offers a vibrant Tuesday market with diverse shopping options, including fabrics, shoes, bags, souvenirs, and spices.
- The Jeep Safari tour provides an opportunity to explore the Kayakoy Ghost Town, an abandoned Greek community with free entrance and historical insights.
- The Saklikent National Park experience offers a chance to ford the river or hike within the Saklikent Gorge, with a riverside lunch and a visit to natural mud baths.
- The Jeep Safari tour combines Saklikent Gorge, ancient Tlos, and a riverside fish farm lunch, providing panoramic views of Roman baths and rock-cut tombs.
- Advance confirmation with a local provider is recommended for the Kayakoy Ghost Town tour, which may not be suitable for young children due to the challenging terrain.
Jeep Safari: Saklikent Gorge, Ancient Tlos and Lunch on the Fish Farm
On the Jeep Safari tour from Fethiye, visitors embark on a thrilling exploration of Saklikent Gorge, the ancient Lycian city of Tlos, and a riverside lunch at a local fish farm.
The full-day excursion departs at 8:30 AM, with hotel pickups from Fethiye, Calis, Oludeniz, Ovacik, and Hisaronu. At Tlos, travelers marvel at the panoramic views of the Roman baths and rock-cut tombs.
After refreshments at a trout farm, the adventure continues into Saklikent National Park, where guests can choose to ford the river or hike. Lunch is served by the riverside, followed by a relaxing visit to the natural mud baths and Patara Beach.
The tour, suitable for families, includes a local guide, buffet lunch, and hotel transfers. While the Saklikent Gorge entrance fee is approximately 1-2€, additional costs may arise for optional activities like mini rafting, bungee, and zipline.
Read our full review: Jeep Safari: Saklikent Gorge, Ancient Tlos and Lunch on the Fish Farm Review
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Kayakoy Ghost Town and Fethiye Bazaar
After exploring the ancient ruins and natural wonders on the Jeep Safari, the tour pivots to the vibrant cultural sights of Fethiye.
The Kayakoy Ghost Town and Fethiye Bazaar tour offers a captivating blend of history, shopping, and culinary experiences. Guests are picked up from their hotels and taken to Fethiye’s lively Tuesday market, where they can browse an array of fabrics, shoes, bags, souvenirs, and spices.
Following the market exploration, the tour visits a Turkish delight factory for a tasting. Then, it’s on to the Kayakoy ghost town, an abandoned Greek community from 1923, where travelers can learn about its fascinating history.
While the entrance to Kayakoy is free, other expenses like food and drinks are paid separately. The tour concludes with hotel drop-off.
Travelers should note that the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the challenging terrain in Kayakoy. Advance confirmation of details with the local provider is recommended.
Read our full review: Kayakoy Ghost Town and Fethiye Bazaar Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Typical Tour Duration and Schedule?
Typical shopping tours in Fethiye last around 4 to 5 hours. The schedule usually includes visits to local markets, traditional textile shops, and artisan workshops. Tourists can expect to have ample time for browsing and purchasing souvenirs during the tour.
Are There Any Age or Physical Restrictions for the Tours?
Most shopping tours don’t have strict age or physical restrictions, though participants should have basic mobility. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific details on any requirements or limitations.
Can We Customize the Itinerary or Make Additional Stops?
Most tour operators allow customizations and additional stops, though restrictions may apply. It’s best to discuss your specific needs with the tour provider to see if they can accommodate any personalized requests for the itinerary.
What Should We Bring or Wear for the Tours?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Pack a small bag or backpack to carry any purchases. Bring local currency for shopping.
Are There Any Specific Dietary Considerations for the Lunch?
Most shopping tours in Fethiye include a lunch stop. It’s best to inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions or preferences beforehand. They’ll ensure the restaurant can accommodate your needs and provide a suitable meal.
Recap
Fethiye offers a variety of shopping tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural and cultural attractions. The Jeep Safari takes travelers to Saklikent Gorge, the ancient city of Tlos, and a fish farm for a delicious lunch. The Kayakoy Ghost Town and Fethiye Bazaar tour provides a glimpse into the area’s history and bustling markets. These tours provide a well-rounded experience for those seeking to enjoy Fethiye’s unique offerings.